Finding Green Universities in Your College Search

For many prospective college students, choosing where to attend school can be one of the most important choices that they will make. While classes, student body makeup and a quality education are all big determining factors of where to go to school, more and more students are looking for schools that focus on environmental sustainability. One of the most significant issues today, sustainability is more than just recycling and turning off an idling engine. For students who care about the future of the earth’s environment, colleges must be able to offer resources and a push towards changing for the better.

Majors

The majors offered at sustainable universities should mirror the focus that is placed on green living throughout campus. Many schools with quality environmental programs also offer majors and rigorous academics for those students who want to work in the field following graduation. Students can learn about the history, chemistry, biology and sociology of global environmental impacts as they earn college credits and get one step closer to sharing their knowledge with the world. Universities that offer environmental education majors are a great choice for those who are committed to making a change.

Research

There is always something new on the horizon, and college campuses are often the starting point for these types of developments. Universities who are on the cutting edge of sustainability research may be the ideal place for environmentally-conscious students. Whether they want to take part in the research or simply see how it plays out throughout their time at school, it can be beneficial to be up close and personal with the growth and changes taking place.

Facilities

Some universities tout sustainability because they have a solar panel or two, but those schools that are actually committed to solving the critical issues rather than keeping up appearances are often a better choice. These institutions put great focus into building and maintaining facilities in a way that promotes the practices that are preached while simultaneously reducing the huge carbon footprint that college campuses can leave. Prospective students may want to take a campus tour and ask about the different sustainability practices that are used on the school’s facilities.

Food

Most colleges offer dining services for their students, and more and more are working towards providing food that has been locally sourced using fresh ingredients. Schools that ship in food products from across the country may contribute to high carbon emissions, but those that work with local merchants and farmers are more likely to offer sustainable, organic choices for students.

Transportation

College campuses have a tendency to be large and sprawling, making it necessary to obtain some sort of transportation. Students concerned about the environmental impact of these modes of transportation may want to look for a school that offers reduced-emission shuttle services or bike sharing programs. Getting around campus does not have to require burning fossil fuels, and an increasing number of universities are figuring this out.

There is more to a college education than simply earning a diploma. Students place great value into the school they choose to attend, so those who want to improve global sustainability would do well to find an institution of higher education that fits within their personal ideals.